Engineers and research scientists at Statoil's Research Center in Trondheim, Norway were interviewed to determine information-seeking patterns. Eight characteristics were identified: surveying, chaining, monitoring, browsing, distinguishing, filtering, extracting, and ending. The results showed that although there were differences in the features…

Outlines a behavioral approach to information retrieval system design based on the derivation of a behavioral model of the information-seeking patterns of academic social scientists. The extent to which identified information-seeking characteristics are supported by existing systems is considered, and requirements for implementing these features…

Presents an outline of models of information seeking and other aspects of information behavior, showing the relationship between communication and information behavior in general with information seeking and information searching in information-retrieval systems. Also presents an alternative, problem-solving model which provides a basis for…

The online searching behavior of 170 nonacademic end users (journalists and politicians) was evaluated and compared to the searching behavior of information professionals. Findings discuss ways in which end user behavior does and does not conform information professionals' preconceptions and how searching behavior is related to levels of…

Reports results of a survey of information needs and information seeking behavior of a national sample of the United Kingdom population. Fourteen tables show results, including: demographic details of respondents; past and future information needs; preferred sources of information; preferred methods of obtaining information; and perceived…